What's Happening?
In 1905, President Theodore Roosevelt embarked on a daring submarine journey aboard the USS Plunger, one of the U.S. Navy's first submarines. Despite adverse weather conditions and against the advice of the Secret Service, Roosevelt personally rowed to
the submarine and participated in a series of dives. This experience was a first for Roosevelt, who had previously survived numerous life-threatening adventures. His time on the Plunger, which included taking the helm and firing a blank torpedo, left a significant impression on him. Following this experience, Roosevelt advocated for better compensation for submariners, who were then receiving landsman pay despite the high risks involved in their duties. His efforts led to an executive order that provided extra pay for enlisted sailors serving on submarine torpedo boats.
Why It's Important?
Roosevelt's actions highlighted the importance of fair compensation for military personnel undertaking hazardous duties. By experiencing the conditions firsthand, he was able to advocate effectively for submariners, leading to policy changes that recognized the unique challenges and dangers of submarine service. This move set a precedent for future military compensation reforms and underscored the value of leadership that is willing to share in the risks faced by service members. The changes initiated by Roosevelt helped to improve morale and retention within the submarine service, contributing to the development of a more robust and capable naval force.
